The Tulsa, Oklahoma community is mourning the unexpected passing of Ryan Forsythe, a dedicated family man and accomplished financial executive who served as the Senior Director for Finance Operations at Verizon. Before his role at Verizon, Ryan was known for his impactful work at IBM, where he established himself as a respected leader and innovator in the financial and technological sectors. His death has left a profound void in the lives of his loved ones, colleagues, and community members, who remember him as a dynamic leader, a selfless community advocate, and a beloved family member.
A Life of Accomplishment and Service
Ryan Forsythe’s life was marked by both professional success and a deep commitment to his community. Known for his strong work ethic, strategic thinking, and compassion, he became an invaluable asset at both IBM and Verizon, excelling in leadership positions that allowed him to make substantial contributions to the financial and technological fields. His journey began in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where his passion for excellence and innovation took root. Ryan was recognized not only for his technical expertise and leadership but also for his unwavering commitment to the people he worked with and the communities he served.
As the former finance director at IBM, Ryan demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex financial structures, optimizing business processes, and pioneering solutions to drive growth. His work took him across various industries and countries, where he gained a reputation for adaptability, innovation, and a keen sense for solving intricate financial challenges. Ryan’s role at IBM spanned several high-stakes projects, including ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) implementations, which revolutionized how businesses managed resources, and business process outsourcing, which allowed companies to operate more efficiently and focus on core strengths. Through his expertise in program and project management, he became a trusted leader known for guiding large teams and managing transformative initiatives with a global reach.
Impact at Verizon and the Tulsa Community
After joining Verizon, Ryan Forsythe’s career continued to soar. In his role as Senior Director for Finance Operations, he led his team with vision and empathy, striving to cultivate an environment where innovation and collaboration thrived. His work ethic and passion for improvement propelled Verizon’s financial operations, where he was known for a meticulous approach that combined analytical prowess with a forward-thinking perspective. His colleagues admired his willingness to invest time in mentoring others, inspiring those around him to pursue excellence and personal growth.
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Ryan’s commitment to the Tulsa community was unparalleled. As a Volunteer Champion for Verizon, he became a visible advocate for social responsibility, organizing initiatives and rallying his team to engage in meaningful community work. His leadership extended to his role on the Tulsa Regional Chamber Board of Advisors, where he represented Verizon with integrity and dedication, striving to foster growth, support local businesses, and enhance the community’s overall well-being. Ryan’s community involvement went beyond professional obligations; he was a dedicated volunteer who believed in giving back to Tulsa and nurturing the next generation of leaders. Colleagues remember him as someone who never hesitated to extend a helping hand and used his influence to make a positive impact.
A Profound Loss for Family and Friends
The news of Ryan’s death has left his family and friends heartbroken. Though the family has not yet disclosed the exact cause of his passing, those who knew him are devastated by the loss of a man they considered a mentor, friend, and guiding force. His wife, children, extended family, and close friends are grieving a beloved husband and father whose legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.
Ryan’s family members describe him as a loving and devoted family man whose priority was always the well-being and happiness of his loved ones. In addition to his professional successes, he took immense pride in the accomplishments and growth of his family, whom he cherished beyond measure. His family was the cornerstone of his life, and he took great joy in every moment spent with them. As they face this unimaginable loss, Ryan’s family has asked for privacy and prayers, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, colleagues, and the community.
Professional Legacy and Dedication to Leadership
Ryan Forsythe’s professional accomplishments reflect a career of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to leadership. His technical expertise and mastery of financial operations allowed him to excel in highly competitive fields, and he consistently pushed himself to grow both personally and professionally. At Verizon, Ryan’s role encompassed overseeing critical financial operations, managing large teams, and refining business processes to maximize efficiency and drive success. His work earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, who saw him as a model of integrity, ambition, and professionalism.
At IBM, Ryan was instrumental in implementing ERP systems, a complex and highly technical field that requires a unique blend of analytical ability and strategic thinking. His colleagues recall his remarkable attention to detail, capacity for handling challenging projects, and willingness to take on new responsibilities. His contributions at IBM left a lasting impact, and his colleagues there still hold him in high regard as a trailblazer and mentor who consistently sought to elevate those around him.
Tributes from Colleagues and Friends
The news of Ryan’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from his friends, colleagues, and community members. Many have shared their fond memories of Ryan, describing him as someone who embodied kindness, dedication, and strength. Colleagues at Verizon have expressed their deep sadness, recalling how his leadership transformed the workplace and how his presence motivated those around him. One Verizon employee shared, “Ryan was more than just a boss. He was a mentor, a friend, and a true leader. He pushed us to be better and reminded us that our work was not just about numbers, but about making a real difference.”
His contributions to the Tulsa community have also been widely recognized, with many expressing their gratitude for his selflessness and dedication. Members of the Tulsa Regional Chamber described him as an invaluable asset who brought energy, ideas, and passion to every meeting. Through his efforts, he supported countless local businesses, advocated for positive change, and worked tirelessly to make Tulsa a better place for all.
Final Farewell and Legacy
As Ryan’s family prepares to say their final farewells, they are comforted by the memories of his remarkable life and the legacy he leaves behind. Though the obituary and funeral arrangements will be shared at a later date, the community is preparing to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to his family, his colleagues, and his beloved Tulsa community. Ryan’s legacy will endure not only through his professional accomplishments but also through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, and wisdom.
In honor of his memory, his family has asked that donations be made to local charities that support education, community development, and volunteer programs, reflecting Ryan’s values and his commitment to making a difference. A memorial fund has also been established to support his children’s future and continue the work Ryan valued so deeply.
A Lasting Influence
Ryan Forsythe’s life was defined by his dedication to excellence, compassion for others, and love for his family. His passing is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing our time with loved ones. Friends, family, and colleagues will carry Ryan’s memory with them, striving to honor his legacy by embodying the values he held dear: integrity, kindness, and resilience. As they remember his contributions, they are committed to preserving the spirit of a man who transformed lives and left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
Ryan Forsythe will be deeply missed, but his influence will live on in the memories of those who were privileged to know him. The Tulsa community, his Verizon and IBM families, and all those touched by his life join together to remember him as a remarkable individual whose legacy will continue to inspire and guide others for generations to come.
